Renewed appeal one week on from death of Barnsley man

The senior detective leading the investigation into the murder of Barnsley man Gary Dean is appealing for information one week on from his death.

Mr Dean, 48, was found with significant injuries in a wooded area behind Moorend Lane, Silkstone Common, close to the Trans Pennine Trail, at around 5.40pm on Thursday 6 September.

Detective Chief Inspector Steve Whittaker, in charge of the investigation, said: “Today marks one week since Mr Dean was killed and our enquiries into the circumstances surrounding his death continue.

“So far, we have spoken to numerous residents in the area and carried out a thorough search of the land where his body was found. Detailed forensic work is also ongoing as we continue to gather evidence.

“We know that Gary left his home address on Moorend Lane on Thursday morning at around 7am, but sadly, he didn’t return home.

“While Gary was a keen runner and cyclist, and often cycled and ran around Silkstone Common and along the Trans Pennine Trail, on the day of his death we don’t believe he was out for a run, or out on his bike, due to the clothing he was wearing. He is described as wearing trainers, beige coloured cargo shorts with large pockets on the side and a bright red running top, that had a top half of red and a bottom half of black

“The Trans Pennine Trail is regularly used by walkers, runners, cyclists, people walking their dog, or by those heading to school or work. Did you see Gary that Thursday morning?

“It’s vital that we speak to anyone who was in the area so we can piece together Gary’s movements between just before 7am last Thursday morning and 5.40pm when he was found in the woods, next to the small tunnel under the Trans Pennine Way.”

A forensic post-mortem examination concluded that he died as a result of injuries sustained from a significant assault. Mr Dean’s family are continuing to receive support from officer’s and have asked that their privacy be respected at this incredibly difficult time.

DCI Whittaker continued: “I’m grateful to everyone who has spoken to us so far and for the patience of the local community as we have carried out enquiries.

“I’d like to reassure you that this investigation is an absolute priority for us, we need to provide answers for Gary’s wife and the rest of his family and friends, as well as the local community.

“I’d ask anyone with information to keep his family at the forefront of their minds, if you have information, please get in touch with us.

“We have a dedicated incident room set up and you can speak to detectives directly on 01709 443544.

“You can also call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. Please quote incident number 628 of 6 September 2018 when passing on information.”

A 40-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder and a 76-year-old woman arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender both remain on bail as enquiries continue.